Penstemon Clevelandii

Description

Penstemon Clevelandii is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the plantain family. This plant is native to the western United States, specifically California. The plant grows to about 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are about 2-3 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. The plant produces stunning purple-blue flowers that are about 1 inch long and bloom in late spring to early summer. These flowers are tubular in shape and have a white throat. The blooms are a favorite of hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Penstemon Clevelandii has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are about 2-3 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. The leaves are typically green, but some varieties have a slight bluish tint. This plant produces stunning purple-blue flowers that are about 1 inch long and bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a white throat. The plant grows to about 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.

Care Guide

Penstemon Clevelandii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It does not do well in heavy clay soil.
• Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Penstemon Clevelandii is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the plant is overwatered. Some pests that may attack the plant include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

The Penstemon Clevelandii is native to the western United States, specifically California. It grows in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodland. The plant prefers well-drained soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

Here are some common questions and answers related to Penstemon Clevelandii:

• Q: How often should I water my Penstemon Clevelandii?
• A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
• Q: What kind of soil does Penstemon Clevelandii prefer?
• A: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It does not do well in heavy clay soil.
• Q: What are some common pests that attack Penstemon Clevelandii?
• A: Some pests that may attack the plant include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Q: What are the hardiness zones for Penstemon Clevelandii?
• A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Penstemon Clevelandii:

• Penstemon Barbatus
• Penstemon Hartwegii
• Penstemon Hirsutus
• Penstemon Rupicola

References

• “Penstemon Clevelandii.” Sunset Western Garden Book. 2012.
• “Penstemon Clevelandii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on 23 August 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280235&isprofile=0&basic=penstemon%20clevelandii.
• “Penstemon Clevelandii.” UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County. Accessed on 23 August 2021, http://ccmg.ucanr.edu/Plant_of_the_Month/Penstemon_Clevelandii/.